Sparkling dry
If you're someone who appreciates refined sparkling wine with both character and finesse, Ken Forrester Sparklehorse 2022 is a bottle worth discovering. Known for setting the standard in Chenin Blanc, Ken Forrester brings the same mastery to this elegant Cap Classique – his first sparkling wine crafted in the traditional method.
Pale yellow with a golden glint, Sparklehorse opens with inviting aromas of yellow apples, toasted brioche, and a gentle floral lift. On the palate, the mousse is fine and persistent, carrying vibrant notes of Granny Smith apple, juicy pear, and a touch of honey. Despite its generous fruit, the wine remains refreshingly dry, with crisp acidity and a long, mouthwatering finish.
Grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness and undergo meticulous sorting to ensure only the best fruit makes it to the press. A cool-climate vineyard site helps preserve the natural brightness of the fruit.
Aged for 7 months on lees and an additional 28 months sur lattes, the wine gains creamy depth and subtle complexity without losing its fresh orchard-fruit charm.
Serve at 6-8°C as an aperitif, with oysters, seafood, mild fish dishes or soft cheeses, chicken prepared with creamy sauces.
The charismatic Ken Forrester, the figure behind some of South Africa's most acclaimed wines, states, "Our idea was simple – to create the best wine. For the first four or five years, we had nothing to show." However, a pivotal bottle taken to London for wine expert Matthew Duke changed everything. His reaction was incredible – it was an unprecedented expression of ‘Chenin Blanc’ from South Africa. Matthew Duke didn't hide his enthusiasm, simply calling the wine "This is frickin marvelous chenin."
The winery's philosophy is remarkably clear and focused – to produce the finest wines possible. This is undoubtedly a constant goal, challenged annually by nature's unpredictable vintage variations. Nevertheless, careful and attentive vineyard monitoring and management allow for the most optimal decisions each year. Although Ken Forrester wines are not officially certified organic or biodynamic, significant efforts are made on the estate to adhere to environmentally friendly, sustainable, and nature-preserving standards.
Wine Style
Ken Forrester wines are celebrated for their expressiveness, richness, and excellent balance. They perfectly reflect the terroir of the Stellenbosch region and the winemaker's individual touch.
Prestigious Vineyards
Ken Forrester Wines owns and meticulously manages vineyards in the prestigious Stellenbosch region of South Africa:
These unique vineyard characteristics and meticulous work in the cellar are the foundation for the exceptional quality of Ken Forrester wines.
Aging and Drinking Period
The style of Ken Forrester wines allows them to be enjoyed both in their youth and after bottle aging. Their balanced acidity and structure give the wines the potential to develop over time, gaining even more nuance and complexity. This is particularly true for their top-tier ‘Chenin Blanc’ and red wines, which can offer pleasure for decades.
